CONTENTS
- 【Gastronomic Journey｜DAY7】From Paris to Taipei – Entering the Final Chapter
- 【Gastronomic Journey｜DAY8】From Taipei’s Local Eats to Modern Gastronomy
- Checking In: From Taipei Main Station to a Quiet Pause at Starbucks
- A Gentle Michelin-Recognized Breakfast at “Fu Hang Dou Jiang”
- A Taste of Taipei’s Classic Comfort Food at “Jin Feng Lu Rou Fan”
- A Refreshing Break at TrueDan – Sipping Tea on a Taipei Street Corner
- A Moment of Urban Stillness at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
- Dinner at “MUME” — A Symbol of Modern Taiwanese Gastronomy
- Soaking Up the Sizzle of Taipei at Shilin Night Market
- 【Gastronomic Journey｜DAY9】One Last Taste, a Bit of Shopping, and a Fond Farewell
- Starting the Day Taipei-Style with “Tianjin Scallion Pancake”
- Souvenirs of Taiwan: Tea and Scents to Bring Home
- A Final Sip at Han Cha Cheng ToGo — Savoring the Last Notes of the Journey
- A Final Bowl Before Departure — Melt-in-Your-Mouth Beef Tendon at Jinan Beef Noodles
- Flying Home with EVA Air — A Pleasant Surprise at the Renewed Fukuoka Airport
- A Journey Through Flavor: From Global Icons to Street-Side Gems
【Gastronomic Journey｜DAY7】From Paris to Taipei – Entering the Final Chapter
This journey has been a pursuit of the world’s finest “deliciousness”—a culinary adventure capturing the essence of the present through every dish.
From Paris to Barcelona, and now to Taipei, we’ve gathered unforgettable flavors unique to each region. This is the heart of our gastronomic journey.
▶ Previous Journeys Can Be Found Here
A Parisian Morning Farewell at Charles de Gaulle
Day 7 marks a transition—leaving behind the first chapter of our journey in Paris.
Our quiet morning began at Charles de Gaulle Airport, where we made a final stop at PAUL, the beloved French boulangerie found across the country.
Behind the glass display: freshly baked tarts, brioches, baguette sandwiches, and quiches—all presented with the same quality and charm as their city branches, making you forget you’re at an airport.
- ADDRESS
Roissy-en-France, Aéroport Charles-de-Gaulle, Terminal 3 retail area
(Also available in Terminals 1 and 2
- OPEN
Daily: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM
(Hours may vary by terminal and are subject to change. Please confirm before your visit.)In Terminals 1 and 2 (2A–2G), most PAUL locations operate approximately from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
I chose a petite bread dusted with powdered sugar and a richly flavored quiche.
With each bite, memories of Parisian mornings gently unfolded—an evocative breakfast to mark our departure.
After 13 Hours in the Sky: Welcome to Taipei
Following a 13-hour flight, we touched down in Asia’s culinary capital—Taipei.
This next and final stage of our journey brings us to Taiwan, land of vibrant night markets and a deep-rooted fermentation culture.
The “Gastronomic Journey” now enters its final act.
Two In-Flight Meals and Offline Netflix Comfort
There were two in-flight meals served.
The first was a Chinese-style chicken rice: tender, sweet-and-savory chicken stir-fried with wood ear mushrooms, served alongside steamed rice. A flavorful and comforting dish.
Alternatively, passengers could opt for a lighter set featuring bread and pasta salad—providing a more casual meal option.
The second in-flight meal, served before landing, was breakfast.
One option was a Western-style omelet plate, accompanied by sausage and fried potatoes—well-balanced and satisfying without being too heavy.
Alternatively, a lighter set featuring a croissant and fresh fruit was also available.
Every detail, down to the dishes and packaging, was adorned with Sanrio characters, adding a gentle touch of fun to the mealtime experience.
I passed the time onboard by watching Netflix offline, which kept boredom at bay throughout the flight.
Thanks to the attentive and efficient cabin crew, along with the bright and spotless cabin environment, even the long-haul journey felt remarkably comfortable.
【Gastronomic Journey｜DAY8】From Taipei’s Local Eats to Modern Gastronomy
After passing through the spacious and airy arrivals lobby, we headed into central Taipei by train.
The Taoyuan MRT, which connects directly to the airport, smoothly transported us into the city.
Its clean, modern carriages prominently display strict no-eating and no-smoking rules, reflecting the thoughtful urban planning that extends seamlessly from the airport itself.
Even during the ride, there was a gentle yet unmistakable shift in atmosphere—from the spirit of Europe to the energy of Asia. That transition felt quietly exhilarating.
Next up, we dive into the culinary world of Taipei.
Street food, fermentation culture, and the aroma of the local scene—the Taiwan chapter of this gastronomic journey begins.
Checking In: From Taipei Main Station to a Quiet Pause at Starbucks
From the airport, we took the Taoyuan MRT straight into Taipei City.
Before long, we arrived at Taipei Main Station, where we transferred to the city’s MRT subway system to head toward our hotel.
But before checking in, we took a brief detour—a quick stop at a local Starbucks in the heart of Taipei.
There’s something about visiting Starbucks abroad that’s hard to resist, and here in Taiwan, you’ll find unique offerings that reflect the local culture.
I ordered a glass of Taiwanese tea, served in a clear cup with the tea bag steeping right inside.
Surprisingly refined for a coffee chain, the aroma of the high-quality tea leaves was rich and authentic—its warmth slowly seeping into my body with each sip.
From green tea to oolong, the menu features a range of Taiwan-inspired selections, making it a perfect spot to pause between sightseeing adventures.
Even in the bustle of the city, this Starbucks offered the same calm, comforting atmosphere found around the world.
That single cup gently shifted my mindset—from a visitor sightseeing to someone settling into a new rhythm of “being” in Taipei.
As I emerged above ground, suitcase in tow, the warmth and bustling humidity unique to Asia rushed in all at once—vivid and unmistakable.
That night’s stay was at MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel Taipei Zhongxiao.
Conveniently located within walking distance from the station, the hotel’s sleek glass façade faces a major thoroughfare, yet exudes a calm, refined presence.
Inside, the atmosphere is serene and cohesive, with interiors styled in muted tones.
The space radiates the signature cleanliness and hospitality of a Japanese hotel, offering a quiet sense of familiarity.
It was one of those rare moments when, after a long journey, your body finally exhales and begins to unwind.
After checking in and dropping off my luggage in the room, it was finally time to head out and explore the streets of Taipei.
With a moment to breathe and settle in, hunger began to set in—just in time for lunch.
Perfectly timed with the approaching midday hour, I stepped out in search of my very first meal in Taipei. Let the culinary adventure begin.
- ADDRESS
No. 30, Sec. 3, Zhongxiao East Rd., Da’an District, Taipei City 10652, Taiwan
30 seconds walk from MRT Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station (Exit 3)
A Gentle Michelin-Recognized Breakfast at “Fu Hang Dou Jiang”
I made my way to one of Taipei’s most beloved breakfast spots: Fu Hang Dou Jiang (阜杭豆漿).
Renowned among locals and travelers alike, this legendary eatery has earned a spot on the Michelin Bib Gourmand list—proof of its reputation for quality without pretension.
Known for its classic Taiwanese soy milk soup (xian dou jiang), Fu Hang is a morning staple for Taipei residents.
From early hours, both locals and tourists form long lines in search of its comforting, flavorful breakfast offerings.
Though I arrived just before noon, a long line had already formed—stretching all the way outside the building.
Taking the elevator up to the upper floor, I found Fu Hang Dou Jiang nestled in a corner of a bustling food court—faced with a sea of people waiting their turn.
Yet, thanks to the staff’s efficiency and the fast-paced turnover, I was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly the line moved, and I was soon guided to a seat.
That day, I ordered the classic trio:
xian dou jiang (savory soy milk), hou bing jia dan (a sandwich-like flatbread filled with egg), and a chilled soy milk on the side.
The xian dou jiang was warm soy milk gently curdled by vinegar, infused with scallions, pickled mustard greens, and pieces of crispy fried dough (you tiao).
Mild yet deeply aromatic, each spoonful released a comforting scent and slowly warmed my stomach from the inside out.
The hou bing jia dan offered the perfect contrast in texture—crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside.
The simple filling of egg and scallions paired beautifully with the warm, freshly baked flatbread.
Combined with the savory soy milk, it made for a light yet deeply satisfying local lunch—comforting, unpretentious, and full of character.
Through the glass window, I could see the kitchen staff working with quiet precision—shaping each piece of dough by hand and lining them up on the griddle.
Despite the tourist-like buzz of the crowd, there was a palpable sense of dedication in the air—this was a place serious about its food, where tradition and craft spoke louder than words.
- ADDRESS
2F, Huashan Market, No. 108, Section 1, Zhongxiao East Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City 100, Taiwan
Right above Shandao Temple MRT Station (Exit 5)—a short walk from Taipei Main Station
- OPEN
Open: Tuesday–Sunday, 5:30 AM–12:30 PM
Closed: Mondays
- AWARD
This Michelin Bib Gourmand–honored spot
A Taste of Taipei’s Classic Comfort Food at “Jin Feng Lu Rou Fan”
Next on the journey was Jin Feng Lu Rou Fan, a long-standing institution and one of Taipei’s most iconic spots for lu rou fan—Taiwan’s beloved braised pork rice.
Cherished by both locals and tourists, the restaurant draws crowds daily, especially around lunchtime.
This day was no exception. As I arrived, I was greeted by a bustling dining room and a kitchen radiating the warmth and energy of nonstop cooking. The air was thick with the savory aroma of simmering pork—a true local experience unfolding right before my eyes.
Naturally, I ordered the signature dishes: lu rou fan (braised pork rice) and lu rou dry noodles (lu rou gan mian).
The lu rou fan, served in a simple stainless steel bowl, featured a generous spoonful of sweet and savory braised pork poured over a bed of steamed white rice.
The pork—meltingly tender with rich layers of fat—was infused with a deeply flavorful sauce, accented by the subtle aroma of star anise.
It was humble, straightforward, yet utterly complete—a taste perfected over decades, embodying the essence of a true Taipei classic.
The second dish, lu rou gan mian (dry noodles with braised pork), featured springy noodles tossed in a rich soy-based sauce and topped with the same flavorful stewed meat.
Crisp bean sprouts and tender greens added a refreshing crunch, creating a well-balanced bowl that was hearty yet never heavy.
It was a satisfying local favorite—robust in flavor, thoughtfully composed, and deeply rooted in Taipei’s everyday cuisine.
In the kitchen, staff moved with practiced efficiency, swiftly handling the constant stream of orders.
At the tables, diners were fully immersed in their meals—focused, silent, purposeful.
It was a scene that captured the spirit of the place: a cornerstone of Taipei’s culinary heartbeat.
Though the visit was brief, it felt like a rare glimpse into the city’s everyday rhythm—a meal that brought me closer to the pulse of local life, and one I won’t soon forget.
- ADDRESS
No. 10 or 10‑2, Section 1, Roosevelt Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan
Nearest MRT: Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall Station, Exit 2 (about 1–3 minutes on foot)
- OPEN
Typically: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)
Some sources report opening from 8:00 AM on weekdays or earlier.
Closed: Mondays (in some cases listed as “no regular holidays”)
Please check locally for updated hours before your visit.
- CONTACT
+886‑2‑2396‑0808
A Refreshing Break at TrueDan – Sipping Tea on a Taipei Street Corner
That day in Taipei, the temperature soared unexpectedly to 30°C.
Having just come from Europe, where the chill hovered around 10°C, my body was still adjusting to the dramatic climate shift.
The intense sun and thick humidity made even a short walk feel like a slow melt under the afternoon heat.
In search of relief, I found myself stopping by TrueDan (珍煮丹), a popular tea stand known for its rich brown sugar tapioca milk tea.
But this time, I went without the tapioca—opting for a refreshingly simple milk tea instead.
Chewy pearls are fun, of course, but on a day like this, what I craved was something cool, lightly sweet, and packed with ice to soothe the heat from within.
It was just what I needed—a brief moment of calm, a cold drink in hand, and the vibrant hum of Taipei swirling around me.
The moment I held the cold cup in my hand, a sense of relief washed over me.
The balance of fragrant tea leaves and creamy milk was just right—aromatic, smooth, and gently revitalizing.
Though TrueDan is known for its popularity and long queues, the staff moved with impressive rhythm, and their efficient service seemed to lift the weight of the heat from my steps.
Taiwan’s drink culture, so naturally woven into the fabric of its street life, feels like an organic response to the island’s climate.
This everyday cup—so simple, so tied to place—became a quiet moment of comfort in the midst of my travels.
- ADDRESS
No. 12, Sec. 1, Roosevelt Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan
MRT: Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall Station, Exit 2
- OPEN
Daily, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Though the iced milk tea offered a moment of relief, the relentless sun continued to bear down.
Even the locals were sticking to the shade—proof enough of just how intense the heat had become.
Realizing that walking any farther in these conditions would be pushing it, I decided not to force it.
Sometimes, the smartest travel choice is to listen to your body—so I called an Uber and headed comfortably to the next destination.
A Moment of Urban Stillness at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
Next, I headed to one of Taipei’s most iconic landmarks: Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.
With its striking white and blue architecture, the grand structure commands attention even from a distance—an imposing presence set against the city skyline.
Set deep within expansive, meticulously landscaped grounds, the memorial stands tall and serene, a quiet monument nestled in the heart of a bustling city.
…That said, it was another sweltering summer day, with temperatures soaring past 30°C.
Under the relentless sun, I decided to skip the climb up the main staircase and didn’t venture inside the hall itself.
I missed the solemn interior and the beauty of the intricately decorated ceiling—but thanks to taking an Uber, I arrived without overexerting myself, and simply being present in that vast, open space was its own kind of reward.
I later learned that the adjacent National Theater is illuminated beautifully at night.
Though I didn’t get to see it this time, it’s now on my list for a future visit—
to return and experience this iconic corner of Taipei in a quieter, more atmospheric light.
When traveling, it’s easy to fall into the mindset of “cover everything on foot.”
But choosing transportation that suits the climate and your own condition is just as much a part of smart, thoughtful travel.
Under Taipei’s intense sun, I was reminded of that simple truth.
Leaving Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall behind, I called another Uber and headed back to the hotel.
After walking around in the sweltering heat, stepping into the cool, quiet comfort of my room felt like a small luxury.
It was the perfect moment to slow down, let my body adjust to the temperature shift, and prepare for the second half of the day—refreshed and re-centered.
- ADDRESS
No. 21, Zhongshan S. Rd., Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan
MRT Station: Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall (Exit 5 or 1)
- OPEN
Memorial Hall: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
Liberty Square: Open 24 hours
Closed: None (open year-round)
Dinner at “MUME” — A Symbol of Modern Taiwanese Gastronomy
The highlight of the evening was dinner at one of the restaurants I had most been looking forward to on this Taipei trip.
But first, a quick stop at GU near the hotel to pick up a short-sleeved shirt—something more fitting for Taipei’s 30°C heat.
My suitcase was still packed for Europe’s chilly spring, and finally adding a piece that matched the local rhythm made it feel like I had truly arrived in Taiwan.
As the sun set, I made my way to MUME, a name synonymous with modern Taiwanese fine dining.
This Michelin-starred restaurant has repeatedly earned a place on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list, and for good reason.
With its minimalist stone façade, the discreetly etched logo, and a sleek, understated entrance, the restaurant already felt like a different world.
From the very moment I stepped into its calm, refined space—cut off from the city’s lively chaos—the dining experience had quietly begun.
- ADDRESS
No. 28 Siwei Rd, Da’an, Taipei
- OPEN
Daily, (~5:30–23:00)
- CONTACT
+886‑2‑2700‑0901
- AWARD
Awarded 1 Michelin Star in Taipei's inaugural Michelin Guide (2018)
Ranked among Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants (No. 34 in 2024) and named "Best Restaurant in Taiwan" in 2019, 2021 & 2023
Soaking Up the Sizzle of Taipei at Shilin Night Market
With the lingering impression of my MUME dinner still fresh, I hopped on the MRT and headed to Shilin Night Market—the largest and most iconic night market in Taipei.
Even after a full dinner, the energy of the streets, the smoky aromas wafting through the air, and the sheer vibrancy of the scene pulled me right back in.
Before I knew it, I was once again swept up in a new food adventure—this time, in the heart of Taipei’s buzzing nightscape.
First stop: the ever-popular Hot-Star Large Fried Chicken (豪大大雞排 / Hao Da Da Ji Pai).
This legendary night market staple is known for its bigger-than-your-face fried chicken, served piping hot and freshly fried to order.
Biting through the ultra-crispy crust releases a burst of juicy, steaming chicken inside.
A dash of bold, peppery spice cuts through the richness, giving it that unmistakable night market kick.
It’s not just street food—it’s an icon of Taiwan’s night market culture, embodying the bold flavors and energy of the evening scene.
- ADDRESS
No. 115, Jihe Rd., Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan
- OPEN
Sun–Thu 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Fri & Sat 3:00 PM – 12:30 AM
Next, I stopped by Hai You Shi Quan Pai Gu (海友十全排骨)—easy to spot thanks to its bright yellow signage.
This long-standing local favorite is known for dishes like braised pork trotters and lu rou fan.
At the front stood the memorable owner, presiding over a simmering pot, a fixture as iconic as the food itself.
The pork trotters, slow-cooked to perfection, were rich in collagen and melted effortlessly in the mouth.
The small bowl of lu rou fan was equally satisfying—its star anise-scented sauce clinging to the rice with just the right depth of flavor: bold, comforting, and endlessly craveable.
- ADDRESS
No. 49, Dadong Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, 111, Taiwan
Nearest MRT: Shilin Station (~7 min walk)
- OPEN
Sun–Thu, Mon: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Fri & Sat: 3:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Closed: Tuesdays (some sources note irregular days off)
- CONTACT
02 2888 1959
- AWARD
Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient for multiple years since 2018
The third stop of the night was San Ru Hao Zhan (三入好棧), a beloved local drink stand known for its refreshing herbal beverages.
Their signature drink is “xiancao gan cha”—a sweet grass jelly herbal tea praised by locals as “love at first sip.”
Other offerings include grass jelly milk tea, brown sugar winter melon tea, and seasonal honey lemon, each with its own refreshing charm.
The xiancao gan cha in particular was the perfect night market cooldown—lightly sweet, with subtle herbal notes and a gentle bitterness that soothed the palate between bites.
It was exactly what I needed: a distinctly local pause that brought balance to an evening of rich flavors and nonstop snacking.
- ADDRESS
No. 33, Danan Road, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan
- OPEN
Tue–Sun 5:00–10:30 PM (Mon closed)
The fourth stop was Ah Hui Mian Xian (阿輝麺線), a cherished local stall serving up a quintessential taste of Taipei.
Their specialty, mian xian (vermicelli in thickened broth), features ultra-fine noodles bathed in a rich, slightly viscous broth.
Simmered gently with tender braised intestines and topped with fragrant cilantro, it’s a bowl that speaks deeply of the city’s culinary soul.
Sitting on a small plastic stool, slurping noodles to the soundtrack of the night market’s lively chaos, it was the kind of meal that invites you to slow down.
Not made for tourists, but for locals—quietly comforting, deeply flavorful, and absolutely unforgettable.
- ADDRESS
No. 52, Danan Rd., Shilin Dist., Taipei (right by Shilin Cihcen Temple)
- OPEN
3:30 PM – 11:30 PM daily; open year‑round
- CONTACT
0952‑672‑655
- AWARD
Michelin Bib Gourmand: Awarded 2018–2021 for its value and flavor
Each dish was full of character—street food in form, but with no compromise in ingredients or flavor. Every bite reflected the vendors’ genuine passion for their craft.
The heat, the aromas, the lively chatter, and those simple words exchanged in the crowd—“This is so good.”
It was the perfect close to a night of wandering and tasting, one that brought the spirit of Taipei just a little closer to the heart.
- ADDRESS
No. 101, Jihe Road, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan
Nearest MRT Station: Jiantan Station (Exit 1) – NOT Shilin Station
(3-minute walk from station to main entrance)
- OPEN
Most stalls: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Weekends: Some open until midnight
A few stores and games operate in the afternoon
【Gastronomic Journey｜DAY9】One Last Taste, a Bit of Shopping, and a Fond Farewell
The final day had arrived—time to return home.
But before heading to the airport, I decided to savor the morning in Taipei with one last round of street food.
The sky was slightly overcast.
Scooters buzzed through intersections, and the humid breeze slipped between the buildings—a typical Taipei morning.
Blending quietly into the city’s rhythm, the final day began.
Starting the Day Taipei-Style with “Tianjin Scallion Pancake”
First stop: Tianjin Cong Zhua Bing (天津蔥抓餅).
This beloved breakfast stall serves up Taiwanese-style scallion pancakes, pan-fried to order on a sizzling griddle.
The dough, crisped on the outside and chewy inside, is layered with egg, cheese, or other toppings—an aromatic, savory way to start the day.
Freshly made to order, the hot cong zhua bing was perfectly crisp on the outside and delightfully chewy inside.
The layered dough offered a satisfying texture, and the salty richness of melted cheese complemented it beautifully.
Simple, yet deeply satisfying—this was comfort food at its best, and a perfect bite to begin the last day in Taipei.
- ADDRESS
Alley 6‑1, Yongkang St., Da’an District, Taipei (near Dongmen MRT)
- OPEN
~8:00 AM – ~10:00 PM
Among the crowd, I noticed many fellow Japanese travelers—clear proof of just how popular this stall has become.
Locals and tourists stood side by side, quietly munching from paper bags, immersed in the shared rhythm of a typical Taiwanese morning.
With each bite on the street corner, the reality of the journey’s end slowly began to settle in.
Even so, I wasn’t quite ready to say goodbye.
Until the very last moment before my flight, I planned to keep walking, tasting, and soaking in every detail of Taipei—carving it into memory, one scene at a time.
Souvenirs of Taiwan: Tea and Scents to Bring Home
After savoring my morning bite of cong zhua bing, it was time for one final mission before heading to the airport:
finding the perfect souvenirs—something special that could only be found in Taiwan.
First stop was Jing Sheng Yu (京盛宇), a modern Taiwanese tea brand known for its elegant approach to tradition.
Inside its refined, minimalist space, rows of tea leaves in beautifully designed, colorful packaging lined the shelves—making even the act of choosing feel like a joyful ritual.
I sampled a fragrant high mountain oolong, rich with floral notes, and a honey-scented black tea (mi xiang hong cha)that left a deep impression with its natural sweetness and complexity.
Beyond their exquisite taste and aroma, the tea packages themselves were thoughtfully crafted—making them ideal gifts that speak not just of flavor, but of design, culture, and care.
- ADDRESS
No. 11, Lane 8, Yongkang St., Da’an, Taipei
- OPEN
11 AM–7 PM
And one more special find—
For my mother, I chose a hand cream from YUAN (阿原), Taiwan’s renowned natural skincare brand.
The Alpinia (Gettou) Hand Cream, made with native Taiwanese herbs, absorbs effortlessly into the skin, releasing a soft, calming herbal scent that gently soothes both body and mind.
More than just a pleasant fragrance or silky texture, the cream reflects YUAN’s deeper philosophy of “restoring balance to the body”—a perspective rooted in traditional Taiwanese wellness.
It carried a quiet sense of care and intention, making it the kind of gift you want to give to someone truly dear.
- ADDRESS
No. 8‑2, Lane 8, Yongkang St., Da’an, Taipei
Additional outlets: Zhongshan, Datong, department stores, airport duty-free shops.
- OPEN
10 AM–9 PM daily
The final stop on my journey was a quietly reflective place—tucked away within the vibrant energy of Taiwan, yet stirring something deeper and more personal.
And just like that, my suitcase became more than just a collection of gourmet finds.
It now carried pieces of feeling, thoughtfulness, and moments that linger—souvenirs not just for the body, but for the heart.
A Final Sip at Han Cha Cheng ToGo — Savoring the Last Notes of the Journey
With my souvenirs in hand, I took one last break at Han Cha Cheng ToGo (翰茶城 ToGo)—a casual tea stand with a bright green counter tucked on a street corner.
I ordered two classics that captured the essence of Taiwan: a milk tea and an oolong tea.
Both were straightforward and unpretentious, letting the aroma of the tea leaves shine through with clarity.
No frills, no fuss—just honest, well-brewed tea. The kind that locals drink every day.
And in that simple, satisfying cup, I felt the quiet aftertaste of the journey—familiar, grounded, and gently lingering.
- ADDRESS
Yongkang St. Lane 10, No. 1
- OPEN
11:00〜20:30 または 21:00 頃まで（季節や曜日により変動あり）
- CONTACT
(02) 2356‑7656
- AWARD
~11 AM–8:30/9 PM daily
As I sipped the warm tea, its aroma rising softly with each breath, the feeling that the journey was coming to an end began to gently settle in.
There was a touch of bittersweetness in the air—but more than anything, I felt full.
Full of flavor, full of moments, and full of the quiet joy that Taiwan had so generously offered.
It was a morning wrapped in gratitude—the perfect close to a richly satisfying journey.
A Final Bowl Before Departure — Melt-in-Your-Mouth Beef Tendon at Jinan Beef Noodles
Before heading to the airport, there was one last stop I couldn’t leave Taipei without: Jinan Beef Noodles (済南牛肉麺).
Just a three-minute walk from MRT Zhongxiao Xinsheng, this unassuming spot is always filled with the comforting steam and rich aroma of simmering broth.
Tucked away quietly, it’s the kind of place you might pass without noticing—but for those who know, it’s a must.
A bowl of beef noodle soup, rich with depth and melt-in-your-mouth braised beef tendon, was the perfect closing note to the journey.
The clear soy-based broth was packed with umami, both light and full-bodied, while the noodles had an irresistibly smooth, springy texture.
The contrast between the tender, almost dissolving beef tendon and the slightly chewy noodles was masterful—each bite a quiet reminder that the trip was drawing to a close.
It wasn’t just a meal, but a final moment of reflection—warming both body and soul before saying goodbye to Taipei.
- ADDRESS
No. 60‑3, Sec. 2, Jinan Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei
MRT: Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station (Exit 2), ~5 min walk
- OPEN
Weekdays only: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Closed: Saturdays & Sundays
Flying Home with EVA Air — A Pleasant Surprise at the Renewed Fukuoka Airport
For the return journey, I once again flew with EVA Air, this time bound for Fukuoka International Airport.
After days immersed in the flavors and warmth of Taiwan, the flight offered a quiet moment to reflect, gently transitioning me back to everyday life.
Upon arrival, I was greeted by the newly renovated Fukuoka Airport—bright, spacious, and impressively modern.
The upgraded design and smooth arrival experience were a welcome surprise, making the final step of the journey feel just as thoughtful as the rest.
Fukuoka Airport had just recently undergone renovations, and the arrival lobby was completely refreshed—clean, modern, and inviting.
There was a quiet sense of newness in coming home, adding a small but pleasant surprise to the end of the journey.
It felt fitting somehow—closing the chapter of one adventure, while stepping into the familiar with fresh eyes.
A Journey Through Flavor: From Global Icons to Street-Side Gems
From The World’s 50 Best to the heart of local street food
Paris, Barcelona, and finally Taipei—this trip was all about one theme: the Gastronomic Journey.
It was a chance to visit some of the most talked-about restaurants ranked in The World’s 50 Best, including those holding the title of “World’s No.1.”
There were reunions with chefs honing their craft abroad, and moments of deep inspiration from the diversity, passion, and sheer energy of the people behind the food.
In Taipei, the summer heat was intense, but I gladly surrendered to the pulse of local street life.
From morning till night, I dove headfirst into bowl after bowl of mian xian, lu rou fan, beef noodles, and fresh juices—my appetite fully engaged at every turn.
It was a trip unlike the usual dash through sightseeing spots—
instead, it was a slower, more personal rhythm of tasting, of giving time to flavor and feeling.
Now, as I look back on each dish, one memory at a time,
I find myself already dreaming of the next journey—wherever it may lead, one plate at a time.
▶ Check out the highlights of this journey here
